The first type is known as an autoimmune condition, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body and kills the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. This type of diabetes generally develops in childhood.
The second type is the most common, in which the body produces little insulin, which may not perform its role in absorbing glucose from the body’s cells. This condition generally develops with age and is related to lifestyle.
It is important to know how diabetes can appear on the body, as individuals often develop this chronic condition without showing early symptoms.
Studies have shown that skin problems are often the first visible signs of diabetes.
Pharmacist Bruce Green said that the skin of a diabetic may look similar to the skin of an elderly person. He explained that the process of changing the skin is a process called glycation, which is a non-enzymatic process responsible for many large and small vascular complications in diabetes, and has a role in some diseases of aging.
He pointed out that skin problems are more common among people with diabetes due to poor blood circulation and loss of sensitivity in the nerves.
Green revealed six major warning signs appearing on the skin that you should be aware of:
1. Yellow or brown spots or bumps
2. A dark area of skin that feels velvety, especially around the neck and armpits
3. Thick, hard skin patches, especially on the fingers and toes
4. Sudden appearance of pimples
5. Skin spots – small, barely noticeable indentations on the skin
6. Dry and itchy skin, especially on the arms, legs, elbows and feet
However, these are not the only symptoms you should be aware of, as the main symptoms of diabetes include feeling very thirsty, or urinating more than usual, especially at night.
Extreme fatigue throughout the day, unintended weight loss, itching around the genitals, frequent bouts of thrush, and vision changes are the main warning symptoms of the disease.
Source: The Sun
#skin #signs #diabetes
How does insulin resistance impact glucose levels in the body?
**Interview with Dr. Sarah Collins, Endocrinologist, on Diabetes Types**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Collins. Let’s dive right in. Can you explain what we mean by autoimmune conditions, especially in relation to diabetes?
**Dr. Collins:** Absolutely, and thank you for having me. Autoimmune conditions occur when the immune system mistakenly targets and attacks the body’s own cells. In the case of diabetes, specifically Type 1 diabetes, the immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, known as beta cells. This type generally develops in childhood, although it can occur in adults as well.
**Interviewer:** That’s quite alarming. So, what distinguishes Type 1 diabetes from Type 2 diabetes?
**Dr. Collins:** Great question! Type 2 diabetes is the more common form of the disease. Unlike Type 1, where insulin production is severely diminished due to the immune attack, individuals with Type 2 diabetes may produce insulin but their bodies do not use it effectively. This can happen due to insulin resistance, where the cells in the body aren’t able to respond to insulin properly. Over time, the pancreas may also produce less insulin.
**Interviewer:** Can you elaborate on the implications of insulin resistance and how it affects glucose absorption?
**Dr. Collins:** Certainly. Insulin resistance means that even with the presence of insulin, glucose from the bloodstream isn’t absorbed effectively into the cells, which is crucial for providing energy. As a result, glucose levels in the blood can rise, leading to a number of potential health complications, including cardiovascular issues and nerve damage.
**Interviewer:** What would you say are the best ways to manage or prevent these types of diabetes?
**Dr. Collins:** For Type 1 diabetes, management usually involves insulin therapy and careful monitoring of blood glucose levels. For Type 2 diabetes, lifestyle changes are critical; this includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight. In some cases, medications may be necessary. Early intervention and awareness are key in both types.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Collins, for shedding light on these important distinctions and management strategies. It’s fascinating but certainly important information for many people.
**Dr. Collins:** Thank you for having me! It’s vital that we continue to educate ourselves about these conditions.
